Andy Newport makes Rangers Old Firm prediction in 'Woeful' verdict

Andy Newport has offered his thoughts on the outcome of Rangers against Celtic ahead of the first Old Firm derby of the 2024/25 season.

The pundit gave his views for the Daily Record [26 August] when discussing the huge clash the sides prepare to face each other on Sunday 1 August at Parkhead.

Philippe Clement will be without his away support for the match as the lockout between the clubs continues [talkSPORT], something that will be a determining factor in the clash according to Newport.

He said: “Rangers will be feeling better about themselves after scudding Ross County but their record at Celtic Park is woeful with just two wins in their last 15 visits. With no away support for backing, the Hoops will be confident of another win.”

Rangers will be heavy underdogs for Old Firm clash

The Light Blues will always have a puncher’s chance when facing Celtic but the odds will be stacked against them when they travel to Celtic Park on the weekend.

Clement is still waiting for his first win in the Old Firm derby as Rangers boss, he was beaten by Brendan Rodgers twice last season at Celtic Park 2-1 and also tasted defeat in a 1-0 loss in the Scottish Cup final.

The Gers did rescue a 3-3 draw at Ibrox in April courtesy of a 93rd-minute equaliser by exit-linked Rabbi Matondo [Daily Record] but, if the club are serious about mounting a challenge to their Glasgow rivals at the top of the Scottish Premiership they need to start being competitive against them.

No wins in their last five outings against Celtic makes for uncomfortable reading for Gers fans, the gulf in class has been evident in recent years as the Hoops have established a stronghold on the SPFL.

The Champions League exit to Dynamo Kyiv means Clement will have to throw all his eggs in one basket in the league, second place will not be enough for qualification for next season’s competition as the qualifying stage is set to become more difficult.

A win against Celtic means more than just bragging rights for Rangers, it will offer hope that Clement can push his side to a title charge this season and the resulting financial gains would be monumental for the cash-strapped club.

In other Rangers news, a John Souttar contract update has emerged at the Light Blues.

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